When the Levee Breaks

If you drive on Highway 37 between Sears Point and Vallejo you’ll notice a dramatic change: there’s water, water, everywhere! On January 6, the levee breached, intentionally, as part of an ongoing restoration project at Cullinan Ranch in the Napa River delta. For the first time in more than 100 years, the area was re-introduced to tidal water. It hasn’t taken long for birds of all varieties to jump back in. For the best experience during the winter season, time your visit close to sunset for fantastic scenery and maximum bird activity (snowy egrets seem most abundant here, currently). Chances are good you’ll have the place all to yourself. The staging area is simple – just a big sign that says “Pond 1 & Cullinan Ranch”.  Then it’s an easy straightaway 1.25-mile walk (one-way) along a path that bisects two large ponds. Walk until you reach two benches overlooking the water. From here, get a brilliant panorama of Mount Diablo, Mount Tam, and the Napa hills. As the sun sets, the feather-cloud sky strikes a fiery orange complexion before fading to deep lilac. Watch as the pink cast of overhead clouds begins mirroring on the water. Ducks seem to delight in the serene setting too, quietly coasting through the water, their wakes artfully reflected in the sinking light.

Cullinan Ranch is part of San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The parking area is on Hwy. 37 (only accessed in the westbound direction) between Vallejo and Sonoma Raceway. Walk north past the gate for 1.25 mile and return the way you came. Dog-friendly (except March 2 – June 30).